Foods with a lot of added sugar can cause or exacerbate depression.
Psychologist James E. Gangwisch and a group of colleagues set out to investigate whether high-glycemic foods (which raise blood sugar levels) increase the risk of depression. To do this, the researchers used survey data that assessed the dynamics of the health status of 70 women. They compared the data collected between 000 and 1994 with the results of a follow-up survey three years later. At the time of the first examination, none of these women suffered from depression.
A diet rich in high-glycemic foods (especially those high in added sugar and refined grains) has been found to increase the risk of depression. Interestingly, only added sugar is “harmful,” and sugar and carbohydrate content alone is not associated with depression. At the same time, some foods, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, foods high in fiber or lactose (this type of sugar is found in milk and dairy products with a low glycemic index), prevent the development of depressive states.
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The mechanism of this phenomenon has not yet been studied, but researchers already have some assumptions. The fact is that excessive consumption of sugar and refined starches increases the risk of developing inflammatory processes and diseases of the cardiovascular system, which, as scientists know, contribute to depression. James Gangwish is confident that more research is needed, but already now he recommends that depressed patients be careful about what they eat. However, complying with this requirement can be very difficult. “Even healthy people find it difficult to refuse such products, and what can we say about depressed patients. It is important not to make them feel guilty by hinting that their problems are caused by their own behavior. Nevertheless, such information is necessary, because if they can find the strength to change their diet, this can have a very noticeable effect on their mood and energy levels, ”says the scientist.
Подробнее см. J. Gangwisch et al. «High glycemic index diet as a risk factor for depression: analyses from the Women’s Health Initiative», The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, June 2015.